American Idol runner-up Megan Danielle claims show was ‘manipulated’ in favor of Iam Tongi
‘God made this happen for a reason’: American Idol runner-up Megan Danielle breaks silence over claims last week’s finale was ‘rigged’ to DEFEND Iam Tongi, saying she is ‘super proud of the humble, talented singer’
American Idol runner-up Megan Danielle has broken her silence after last week’s finale was labeled ‘rigged’ by fans in favor of winner Iam Tongi
18-year-old high school student Tongi, from Kahuku, Hawaii, defeated finalists Megan Danielle and Colin Stough on the hit show’s 21st season.
When asked if the talent show was rigged, Megan explained the New York Post“I’d say it’s not just because, you know, I feel like God made all of this happen for a reason.
“Even if I was first, second, last, whatever… I feel like each of us really deserved it.
“I feel like I deserved it and he’s so humble and so talented. And this was his time and I’m just super proud of him.’
Last week, Megan Danielle, left, Iam Tongi, center, and Colin Stough, right, competed to be crowned the show’s 21st season winner
Megan Danielle and Iam Tongi with host Ryan Seacrest past Su
Some fans upset by the result took to social media, with one writing on Twitter, “American Idol is rigged. Colin Stough was the best there was.’
Another claimed that I won on voter sympathy rather than talent, writing, “Clearly the likeable vote is in.”
With a third simply adding, “I’m so over this rigged American Idol.”
Tongi, who was born in Hawaii but of Tongan and Samoan descent, was crowned the winner of the hit show after a nationwide vote.
He played Don’t Let Go by Spawnbreezie as his family in the audience waved their hands in the air.
Tongi already has a number of connections in the music industry and released a single ‘Dreams’ in November 2020.
Tongi is a member of the Mormon Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has shared his faith openly on social media.
The singer even shared a video of him singing a Mormon hymn with other American Idol contestants on his Facebook page.
The 18-year-old high school student from Kahuku, Hawaii, defeated finalists Megan Danielle and Colin Stough, but fans of the show were divided on the result
Tongi, who hails from Hawaii but is of Tongan and Samoan descent, claimed victory after beating runners-up Megan Danielle and Colin Stough in the final
A number of great artists also take the stage during the final, including Kylie Minogue, Pitbull, TLC, James Blunt and Clay Aiken.
Iam took the stage playing his guitar and sang the song to the live studio audience.
When he finished, the audience chanted his name and the judges gave him a standing ovation.